New Delhi: Funding of national federations from the Sports Ministry could depend on extent of Sports Governance Bill’s compliance in the future. The idea has been floated in a meeting between Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya and national sports federation (NSF) representatives in preparation for the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028.
“If you are fully compliant with the good governance provisions than you get your entire share but if it is not the case then there could be cuts when such a system comes into effect. But it is only an idea under consideration as of now,” a sports ministry source told PTI.
“The implementation can greatly improve transparency and performance of the NSFs.”
The ministry provides financial support to federations for organisation tournaments and conducting training camps at home and overseas apart from salaries of coaches and support staffs.
Allowances and grants are also handed to athletes for individual training by the ministry.
The draft sports bill could be tabled in the budget session of the Parliament in which establishment of an ethics commission and dispute resolution commission has been proposed to ensure transparent governance.
The bill also suggests formation of a sports regulatory board that would have the power to grant recognition to NSFs based on compliance with governance, financial, and ethical norms.
Indian Olympic Association president PT Usha has pointed out that setting up of the regulatory board could undermine the IOA, with the International Olympic Committee perceiving it as government interference that could lead to sanctions.
Call for ‘transparent’ elections
Since India has bid for the 2036 Olympics, NSFs need to put aside their interests, avoid infighting and getting into legal battles with athletes. It was also hold to hold free and fair elections.
“If we want to host the 2036 Olympics and improve our medal tally in LA 2028, all stakeholders will have to pool in their resources and efforts. We have to think of the nation first, the athletes represent the country and not an organisation,” Mandaviya said.
“The elections need to be transparent. People have a habit of going to courts if they have lost the elections, on the other hand there are many individuals who keep sticking to their posts. This should not happen as it creates problems for our athletes.”
The draft sports bill could be tabled in the Parliament soon in which establishment of an ethics commission and dispute resolution commission has been proposed Other Sports Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
